Window frame for air conditioner unit

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein is a method of installing an air conditioner unit into a window frame, the method comprising: inserting the air conditioner unit into an opening in the window frame; extending left and right adjustable side curtains until the left and right adjustable side curtains contact jarbs of the window frame; recording a left measurement of an extent at which the left adjustable side curtain extends from a left reference point of the air conditioner unit and recording a right measurement of an extend at which the right adjustable side curtain extends from a right reference point of the air conditioner unit; cutting to size a left and right outer panel by cutting along a cut line identified by indicia that matches the recorded left and right measurements; and snap-fittingly installing the cut left and right outer panel onto a frame of the left and right adjustable side curtain respectively.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Pat. Application Serial No. 62/030,466, filed May 27, 2020, which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to window air conditioners and more particularly, relates to a customizable window frame that is for installation within a window as part of an air conditioner unit, as well as an air conditioner unit having the customizable window frame installed thereon.

BACKGROUND

Window air conditioners are among the most popular types of air conditioning units. As is well known, a window air conditioner is one of the simpler forms of an air conditioning system and is mounted in a window or wall. The window air conditioner has an evaporator side that is located facing the room for cooling of the space and a condenser side outdoor for heat rejection. The window air conditioner is a single unit that is assembled in a casing where all the components are located.

A conventional window air conditioner has a front panel that is seen by the user from inside the room where it is installed and has a user interfaced control which can be electronic or mechanic in form. Older units usually are of mechanical control type with rotary knobs to control the temperature and fan speed of the air conditioner. The newer units come with electronic control system where the functions are controlled using remote control and touch panel with digital display. The front panel typically has adjustable horizontal and vertical (some models) louvers where the direction of air flow is adjustable to suit the comfort of the user(s).

Indoor side parts of the window air conditioner include, but are not limited to, a cooling coil with an air filter mounted on it. The cooling coil is where the heat exchange happens between the refrigerant in the system and the air in the room. The outdoor side parts of the window air conditioner include, but are not limited to, a compressor that is used to compress the refrigerant and a condenser coil that is used to reject heat from the refrigeration to the outside air.

Typically, the window air conditioner is installed using a mounting bracket that attaches to an outside wall and the underside of the window air conditioner. To fill the open space between casing and the window frame itself, accordion panels (accordion filler assemblies) are slid onto both sides of the window air conditioner. The window air conditioner is then placed onto the mounting bracket. The window is then lowered on top of the window air conditioner. The accordion panels are extended and screwed into place. The gap between the lower sash and the windowpane can be filled with foam weather stripping. The window air conditioner is then plugged in and turned on and operated.

The above described installation process requires multiple parts and tools and involves the dangerous step of balancing the window air conditioner, which can be approximately 50 lbs. in weight, on a windowsill. The present invention is directed providing an easier, safer alternative installation process that uses a window frame for the window air conditioner and further, .

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a window air conditioner unit includes an air conditioner housing and an adjustable outer frame coupled to and extending around the air conditioner housing and configured for insertion into a window. The adjustable outer frame includes a main frame body fixedly attached to the air conditioner housing and a pair of adjustable window side curtains that are slidingly coupled to the main frame body for filling an open window space. Each adjustable side curtain moves between: (1) a retracted position in which the adjustable side curtain is retracted within upper and lower internal channels that are formed within the main frame body and are open along opposite sides of the main frame body and (2) an extended position in which the adjustable side curtain extends outwardly from the side of the main frame body a distance greater than when the adjustable side curtain is in the retracted position.

Each adjustable side curtain includes a window side curtain frame, an accordion filler part that is disposed within and carried by the window side curtain and an outer panel that is snap-fittingly coupled to the window side curtain frame and covers the accordion filler part when the adjustable side curtain is in the extended position.

The window side curtain frame and the outer panel include complementary measuring indicia formed thereof to allow the outer panel to be cut to size based on the distance of which the respective window side curtain frame is extended from the window air conditioner body.

A method of installing an air conditioner unit into a window frame includes the steps of:

-   inserting the air conditioner unit into an opening defined in the     window frame; -   extending left and right adjustable side curtains until the left and     right adjustable side curtains contact jambs of the window frame; -   recording a left measurement of an extent at which the left     adjustable side curtain extends from a left reference point of the     air conditioner unit and recording a right measurement of an extend     at which the right adjustable side curtain extends from a right     reference point of the air conditioner unit; -   cutting to size a left outer panel by cutting along a cut line     identified by indicia that matches the recorded left measurement and     cutting to size a right outer panel buy cutting along a cut line     identified by indicia that matches the recorded right measurement;     and -   snap-fittingly installing the cut left outer panel onto a frame of     the left adjustable side curtain and snap-fittingly installing the     cut right outer panel onto a frame of the right adjustable side     curtain.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a front and side perspective view of an air conditioner unit with window frame installed into the window;

FIG. 2 is front and side perspective view of the air conditioner unit with window frame prior to insertion into the window;

FIG. 3 is a front and side perspective view of the air conditioner unit with window frame illustrating window side curtains (window filler kits) in extended positions and one of the decorative side covers being removed;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the air conditioner unit with window frame;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged partial view showing one window side curtain with an accordion filler part being exploded from the movable window side curtain frame;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged partial view showing one window side curtain with installed accordion filler part and the decorative side cover being exploded;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged partial view showing one window side curtain with installed accordion filler part and the decorative side cover being partially inserted; and

FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of the decorative side cover.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS Window Frame for Air Conditioner Unit

FIGS. 1-8 illustrate a window frame 100 that is associated with a window air conditioner unit 50 in accordance with one embodiment. The window frame 100 is attached the air conditioner unit 50 and is configured to be installed into a conventional window as described herein.

Window Air Conditioner Unit 50

It will be appreciated that the window frame 100 can be used with different window air conditioner units and therefore, the window air conditioner unit 50 is merely exemplary in nature and not limiting of the type of air conditioner units to which the window frame 100 can be installed. The illustrated window air conditioner unit 50 has a main housing 52 with four rounded corners 54. The window air conditioner unit 50 has a top surface 56, an opposite bottom surface 57, a first side surface 58 and an opposite second side surface 59. Unlike traditional window air conditioner units that have right angle corners, the four corners of the window air conditioner unit 50 are curved (rounded). However, it will be understood that the air conditioner unit 50 is not limited to this constructed and can have a more traditional rectangular shape.

Window Frame 100

The window frame 100 is intended to be mostly assembled at the manufacturing site as opposed to at the point of use. As best shown in the exploded view of FIG. 4 , the window frame 100 includes a number of parts that when assembled to the window air conditioner unit 50 surrounds the external surface of the window air conditioner unit 50 and extends around a periphery thereof. The window frame 100 includes a top rail 110, a bottom rail 120, a first side adapter 130, a second side adapter 140 and a front frame part 150. It will be appreciated that the aforementioned frame parts are fixedly attached to the window air conditioner unit 50 using fasteners and the like. These parts completely surround and frame in the window air conditioner unit 50.

The top rail 110 is an elongated structure that has a front plate 111 with a bent upper edge 112 that can define a lip. The top rail 110 also has a rear plate 113 that is coupled to and spaced from the front plate 111 to define a top channel 114. The rear plate 113 likewise includes a bent upper edge 117 (FIG. 5 ) that can define a lip. The front plate 111 and the rear plate 113 are parallel to one another and the top channel 114 is a longitudinal channel. The top rail 110 thus extends across the top surface 56 of the window air conditioner unit 50 between the sides surfaces 58, 59. In other words, the top rail 110 extends across the width of the air conditioner unit 50. The top rail 110 can include openings that receive fasteners for attaching the top rail 110 to the top surface 56. For example, screws or bolts or the like can be used. The top rail 110 is thus fixedly attached to the air conditioner unit 50.

When the upper sash of the window closes, it seats against (on top of) the top edge of the rear plate 113 of the top rail 110 with the front plate 111 being located in front of the upper sash of the window. More specifically, the upper sash seats against the bent upper edge 117 of the rear plate 113. The top channel 114 is therefore located below the upper sash. The front plate 111 is positioned in front of the upper sash and can be secured to the upper sash using one or more fasteners (e.g., a wood screw/sash security screw).

The bottom rail 120 is an elongated structure that has a front plate 121, a rear plate 122, and a connector wall 123 that connects the front plate 121 to the rear plate 122. A bottom channel 125 is defined between the front plate 121, rear plate 122, and connector wall 123. Top edges of the front plate 121 and rear plate 122 can include flanges or lips 126 that are designed to seat against the bottom surface 57 of the window air conditioner unit 50. For example, spaced openings can be formed through the flanges 126 for receiving fasteners for attaching the bottom rail 120 to the bottom surface 57 of the air conditioner unit 50. The top of the bottom channel 125 is defined by the bottom surface 57.

The first side adapter 130 can be considered to be a left side frame part that is affixed to the first side surface 58. The first side adapter 130 includes a curved inner wall 132 that seats against the first side surface 58. Due to the rounded corners of the window air conditioner unit 50, the top and bottom of the curved inner wall 132 is curved to seat against the rounded corners. The first side adapter 130 includes a first coupling member 135 that can be in the form of a first vertical inner rail. The first coupling member 135 can have a T-shape or other keyed shape. However, outer edges of first side adapter 130 are right angle corners.

The second side adapter 140 can be considered to be a right side frame part that is affixed to the second side surface 59. The second side adapter 140 includes a curved inner wall 142 that seats against the second side surface 59. Due to the rounded corners of the window air conditioner unit 50, the top and bottom of the curved inner wall 142 is curved to seat against the rounded corners. The second side adapter 140 includes a second coupling member 145 that can be in the form of a first vertical inner rail. The second coupling member 145 can have a T-shape or other keyed shape. However, outer edges of second side adapter 140 are right angle corners.

The front frame part 150 comprises the front facia of the window frame 100 and comprises a three sided structure that is fixedly attached to the air conditioner unit 50. In particular, the front frame part 150 includes a top portion 151, a first side portion 152 and a second side portion 153. The first and second side portions 152, 153 intersect the top portion 151 at their top ends. The inner edges of the top portion 151, the first side portion 152 and the second side portion 153 are curved in areas that seat against the curved corners of the window air conditioner unit 50. The bottom ends of the first side portion 152 and the second side portion 153 have inwardly directed lips 157.

The top portion 151 is attached to the front plate 111 of the top rail 110 using fasteners or the like. The top portion 151 has along its top edge an inwardly directed lip 158 that is disposed over the bent upper edge 112.

The outer edges of the front frame part 150 provide a more traditional look in that they define right angle corners.

The top rail 110, bottom rail 120, first side adapter 130, second side adapter 140 and front frame part 150 are rigid parts and can be formed of metal or plastic.

Window Side Curtains 160

The window frame 100 also includes a pair of window side curtains 160 that can be formed of metal or plastic or other rigid materials. These window side curtains 160 can be considered to be window filler kits that fill in the space between the sides of the window air conditioner unit 50 and parallel sides of the window frame.

Each window side curtain 160 includes an accordion filler part 170 and a movable (slidable) window side curtain frame 180. As best shown in FIG. 5 , the accordion filler part 170 has an accordion (bellows) shaped main body defined by a first end 173 and a second end 174. The folds in the main body allow for the accordion shaped main body to move between a compressed state and an extended state. At the first end 173, there is a first end connector 190 and at the second end 174, there is a second end connector 195. The first end connector 190 comprises a slotted structure that has T-shaped slot 192 formed therein. One leg of the T provides the entrance into the slot 192. This leg faces the direction of the window air conditioner unit 50. Instead of a T-shape, the slot 192 can have other keyed shapes.

The second end connector 195 has a pair of tangs or catches 197 that extend outwardly. As described herein, these catches 197 are used to couple the accordion filler part 170 to the movable side curtain frame 180 so that the two move in unison. The catches 197 can be generally triangular shaped.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the side curtain frame 180 is generally U-shaped. The side curtain frame 180 has a top rail 181, and opposite bottom rail 182 and an end rail 183 that connects and extends between the top rail 181 and the bottom rail 182.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the top rail 181 includes measurement indicia 185 in the form of consecutive numbers that extend longitudinally along the top rail 181. The consecutive numbers (number increments) increase in the direction toward the end rail 183. Next to each number is an indicator line. The measurement indicia 185 is used to identify to the user the degree to which the window side curtain 160 is extended from the side of the window air conditioner unit 50. The measurement indicia 185 can thus be printed indicia, be integrally formed by a molding process if the rail is plastic, or be applied as a printed sticker, etc.

The two opposite ends of the front frame part 150 can be considered to be an end edge 119 that acts as a reference point for the determining the degree of which the side curtain frame 180 is extended from the air conditioner unit itself. More specifically, since the top rail 110 travels within the upper channel described herein, the measurement indicia 185 lies behind the end edge 119 and therefore, once the side curtain frame 180 is positioned in its desired position within the windowsill, the user looks to the reference point (i.e., the end edge 119) and observes which reference line of the measurement indicia 185 is aligned with the end edge 119 (reference point). This aligned reference line of the measurement indicia 185 is recorded. In the illustrated example, thew measurement indicia 185 comprises a set of consecutive numbers from 1 to 21 with reference lines marking the whole numbers and half number increments. For example, there is a reference line at 1, a reference line at 1.5 and a reference line at 2, etc.

While the measurement indicia 185 can be in the form of consecutive numbers, such as the numbers 1 to 21, it will be appreciated that the indicia can be in the form of consecutive letters, or various symbols.

As shown in the figures, the top rail 181 can also include left and right indicia (printed words) that identify which side curtain frame 180 is intended to be installed on the left side of the air conditioner unit 50 and which one is intended to be installed on the right side of the air conditioner unit 50. In both the left and right, the consecutive numbers increase in a direction away from the respective side wall of the air conditioner unit 50. This left and right indicia can be formed as part of a tab 189 (e.g., a rounded tab extending upwardly from the top rail 181) that can include a hole to receive a fastener for securing the side curtain frame 180 to the window.

The end rail 183 has an inner surface 186. Along the inner surface 186, there are guide and retaining tabs 187 that are formed vertically along the inner surface 186 and spaced apart from one another. Each retaining tab 187 is formed by two opposing wall structures 188 that have inwardly directed lips 189 at their free ends so as to define an enclosed area. In the illustrated embodiment, there are four (4) retaining tabs 187 that are oriented vertically one on top of the other.

The retaining tabs 187 are designed to interact with and engage the second end connector 195 as the accordion filler part 170 drops into place and is vertically fed into the open enclosed areas of the retaining tabs 187. The catches 197 engage the inwardly directed lips. This engagement securely holds the second end connector 195 in place along the inner surface 186 of the end rail 183, thereby coupling the accordion filler part 170 to the window side curtain frame 180.

The opposite first end 173 of the accordion filler part 170 is coupled to one of the first side adapter 130 and the second side adapter 140 by inserting one of the first coupling member 135 and the second coupling member 145 into the T-shaped slot 192 of the first end connector 190. The first end connector 190 is thus slid over one of the first coupling member 135 and the second coupling member 145.

It will therefore be appreciated that the accordion filler part 170 slides into place and is therefore fixedly coupled to both: (1) one of the first side adapter 130 and second side adapter 140 and (2) the movable window side curtain frame 180. Since each of the first side adapter 130 and the second side adapter 140 is fixed to the air conditioner unit 50, the first end 173 of the accordion filler part 170 is anchored and does not move when the respective window side curtain 160 moves between the retracted position and the extended position. However, the second end of the accordion filler part 170 is anchored to a movable part (the side curtain frame 180) and therefore, the second end of the accordion filler part 170 moves with the side curtain frame 180.

The first and second end connectors 190, 195 can be molded structures.

The inner surface 186 of the end rail 183 also includes a plurality of enclosed locking slots 191. The enclosed locking slots 191 can be in the form of a hollow rectangular shaped structure that are open along the front edge of the end rail 183. The axis of the slot 191 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the end rail 183. In the illustrated embodiment, there are three enclosed locking slots 191 that are spaced apart from one another. As shown, the retaining tabs 187 are interspersed with the enclosed locking slots 191 (i.e., the retaining tabs 187 and the enclosed locking slots 191 alternative with one another).

The side curtain frame 180 of each of the pair of window side curtains 160 is designed to slidingly travel within a track to allow the side curtain frame 180 to move between a retracted position and an extended position relative to the air conditioner unit 50. The top rail 181 of the side curtain frame 180 is slidingly received within the top channel 114 of the top rail 110 that is fixedly attached to the top surface of the air conditioner unit 50. The bottom rail 182 of the side curtain frame 180 is slindingly received within the bottom channel 125 of the rail 120.

It is expected that the frame 100 is manufactured such that the top rail 110, bottom rail 120, first side adapter 130 and second side adapter 140 are fixedly attached to the air conditioner unit 50 prior to delivery to the end user. The window side curtains 160 also are preferably assembled and are inserted into the respective tracks defined within the top rail 110 and bottom rail 120. The window side curtains 160 can be pushed into their fully retracted positions. Alternatively, the window side curtains 160 can be assembled and packaged with the air conditioner unit 50 but then later inserted into the respective tracks (channels) but the end user.

Customizable Filler Panels 200

In another aspect of the present disclosure, a pair of customizable filler panels 200 are provided to the end user. The customizable filler panels 200 are provided to the user in oversized form relative to the space the needs to be filled between the air conditioner unit 50 itself and the side of the window frame and then, as described herein, with guidance from the measurement indicia 185, the user resizes the customizable filler panels 200 to fit this space.

As shown in the figures, each customizable filler panel 200 includes a main (panel) body 210 that has a front surface 212 and an opposing rear surface 214. When installed, the front surface 212 faces outward and is visible to the user and room occupants. The main body 210 can be formed of many different materials so long as the material can be cleanly cut by the user using a suitable cutting implement, such as a knife or scissor. In one embodiment, the main body 210 is formed of a foam board with a front layer coupled to one face of the foam board. This front layer defines the front surface 212. The front layer can be in the form of a film (e.g., plastic film, such as PP film) coupled to the one face of the main body 210.

The customizable filler panel 200 also includes an inner edge 202 and an opposing outer edge 204 along with a top edge 206 and an opposing bottom edge 208.

Along the rear surface, the main body 210 includes measurement indicia 220 that complements the measurement indicia 185. The measurement indicia 220 can be in the form of consecutive numbers (e.g., the numbers 1 to 21) that extend across the width of the main body 210. The numbers (number increments) increase in the direction toward the outer edge 204. Next to each number is an indicator line which can extend from or substantially from the top edge to the bottom edge (indicator lines can also be provided between numbers to indicate ½ increments). The measurement indicia 220 starts with the inner edge 202 of the panel. As with the measurement indicia 185, the measurement indicia 220 is not limited to consecutive numbers but can be consecutive letters or other symbols that match the arrangement of the measurement indicia 185.

The distances between the measurement indicia 185 and the measurement indicia 220 are the same. As a result, when the customizable filler panel 200 is disposed over the window side curtain 160, the measurement indicia 220 corresponds to the measurement indicia 185 in that the inner edges of the customizable filler panel 200 and inner edges of the top and bottom rails of the side curtain frame 180 overlap when properly assembled. In other words, the starting point for the measurement indicia 185 and the measurement indicia 220 is the same. Thus, when properly installed, the same increment number (unit) on the customizable filler panel 200 corresponds to the same increment number (unit) on the top rail 181 relative to the reference point (end edge 119). In other words, the same increment number for both the panel 200 and top rail 181 aligns with end edge 119.

In the illustrated example, the measurement indicia 185 and measurement indicia 220 have the same reference point (i.e., the end edge 119). Thus, in an example in which the number 5 of the measurement indicia 185 aligns with the end edge 119, the panel 200 is cut so that when the panel is inserted into place, the number 5 on the rear surface of the panel 200 aligns with the end edge 119.

Accordingly, the measurement indicia 220 and the measurement indicia 185 are intended to match one another. The recorded increment numbers from the measurement indicia 185 when the side curtain frame 180 is in its extended position is then used to cut the main body 210 to form. The user simply takes this recorded increment number and locates this same increment number along the measurement indicia 220 and then cuts the main body 210 along the line that corresponds to the selected increment number. This matching measurement indicia system allows the user to easily customize the filler panel 200 and ensure that the customizable filler panel 200 has the proper width to fit and fill the space along the side of the air conditioner unit 50. Additional details of fitting the customizable filler panel 200 to this space are discussed herein.

The outer edge 204 includes a trim piece 230 that is an elongated structure that has the same height as the height of the main body 210. The trim piece 230 can be a plastic part that is attached to the rear surface of the main body 210. The trim piece 230 has a plurality of locking members 240 that can form part of a snap-fit system. The snap-fit system can be a traditional cantilever snap-fit and each locking member 240 includes a plurality of deformable cantilever beams 242 that each terminates in catches 244 (together these parts can be considered to be deformable prongs). In the illustrated embodiment, there are three locking members 240 with each locking member 240 having a pair of adjacent upstanding cantilever beams 242 each of which terminate in one catch 244. The catches 244 are on opposite sides in that they angle inward toward one another. As is traditionally known, the catch 244 includes an angled insertion face (along the outer surface of the catch) and a retention face (a planar undercut) that is perpendicular to the beam 242.

Between the locking members 240 a pair of elongated tabs 250 are provided and extend along the height of the trim piece 230. The tabs 250 do not protrude as far out as the locking members 240 from the rear surface.

As described herein, each trim piece 230 is snap-fittingly attached to one respective movable side curtain frame 180, thereby attaching the customizable filler panel 200 to the side curtain frame 180.

The front surface 212 of the main body 210 can be a decorative surface in that it can come in different colors, different patterns, and/or contain different indicia.

Measuring/Customizing the Window Side Curtains 160

Since the top channel 114 of the top rail 110 is located behind the front frame part 150, the top rail 181 and the measurement indicia 185 formed thereon are located, in part, behind the front fame part 150 and thus are obscured from view. However, a portion of the measurement indicia 185 is visible beyond the front frame part 150 and as the user pulls the window side curtains 160 outward, more of the measurement indicia (number increments) 185 become visible. The measurement indicia 185 are designed so that one of the measurement indicia 185 (one number increment) aligns with the side edge (end 119 (reference point)) of the front frame part 150 when the window side curtains 160 are pulled outward and the end rail 183 seats against the side wall of the window frame itself so as to completely occupy the open space between the air conditioner unit 50 and the side walls of the window frame. When the window side curtains 160 are in these desired final (in use) installation positions, the user records the measurement indicia 185 (number increment) that aligns with each of the opposing respective end edges 119 of the front frame part 150. The user thus records the number increment for both the left window side curtain 160 and the right window side curtain 160. The number increment for the left and right may not be the same for example if the air conditioner unit 50 is not perfectly centered in the window opening or in view of the dimensions of the window opening itself. This recorded measurement data is used subsequently to complete the installation.

As mentioned herein, the main body 210 is trimmed to the proper width using the recorded data (number increment) that appears on the top rail of the side curtain frame 180. Once cut to size, the inner edge of the main body 210 can be inserted into a slot defined between the front face of the top rail 181 and the rear of the front frame part 150 as shown in FIG. 7 or the cut inner edge of the panel 200 can be disposed flush to the end edge 119 (the reference point) and thus not inserted into the slot. In the event that the inner edge of the panel 200 is inserted into this slot, the user can be instructed to cut the panel at the cut line that is adjacent to the cut line that corresponds to the recorded measurement indicia 185. For example, in the example described herein, in the event that the recorded measurement indicia 185 is 5, then the panel can be cut at the cut line corresponding to the indicia 4.5. This extra ½ increment is to compensate for the depth of the slot into which the inner edge of the panel 200 is inserted. Thus, when cut at 4.5 increment and inserted into the slot, the measurement indica number 5 of the panel 200 will align or closely align with the reference point (end edge 119).

Thus, the insertion allows for the calibration (matching alignment) between the measurement indicia 185, 220. Next the locking members 240 are aligned with the complementary enclosed locking slots 191 formed along the end rail 183. The customizable filler panel 200 is then attached to the movable side curtain frame 180 by inserting the locking members 240 into the enclosed locking slots 191. The catches 244 of the pair of deformable cantilever beams 242 compress inwardly toward one another as the locking member 240 (i.e., deformable cantilever beams 242) enters the enclosed locking slot 191. Once the catches 244 clears the rear end of the enclosed locking slots 191, the stored energy is released and the catches 244 deflect outwardly away from one another. This locking preferably occurs simultaneously for all of the locking members 240 as the panel 200 is inserted into the frame 180. The retention face of the catch 244 seats against the rear end of the structure of the enclosed locking slot 191, thereby capturing the locking members 240 in the enclosed locking slots 191. The insertion of the inner edge of the main body 210 into the slot and the snap-fitting of the outer edge of the main body 210 ensures that the customizable filler panel 200 is secured in place and covers the accordion filler part 170.

While the illustrated embodiment discloses that the vertical end rail of each window side curtain frame include females locking features that snap-fittingly mate with male locking features formed as part of the outer panel 200, it will be appreciated that the arrangement can be reversed and the rear of the outer panel 200 can include female locking features and the vertical end rail can include male locking features.

It will also be understood that the snap-fit attachment is preferably of a reversible type in that the user can remove the installed panel 200 by compressing the locking members 240 to allow removal from the enclosed locking slots 191. Thus, the frame assembly can be disassembled to allow for storage, etc.

It is to be understood that like numerals in the drawings represent like elements through the several figures, and that not all components and/or steps described and illustrated with reference to the figures are required for all embodiments or arrangements.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising”, when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not precludes the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Also, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having,” “containing,” “involving,” and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.

The subject matter described above is provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed as limiting. Various modifications and changes can be made to the subject matter described herein without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described, and without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present invention, which is set forth in the following claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A window air conditioner unit comprising: an air conditioner housing; an adjustable outer frame coupled to and extending around the air conditioner housing and configured for insertion into a window, the adjustable outer frame including: a main frame body fixedly attached to the air conditioner housing; and a pair of adjustable window side curtains that are slidingly coupled to the main frame body for filling an open window space; each adjustable side curtain moving between: (1) a retracted position in which the adjustable side curtain is retracted within upper and lower internal channels that are formed within the main frame body and are open along opposite sides of the main frame body and (2) an extended position in which the adjustable side curtain extends outwardly from the side of the main frame body a distance greater than when the adjustable side curtain is in the retracted position; and wherein each adjustable side curtain includes a window side curtain frame, an accordion filler part that is disposed within and carried by the window side curtain and an outer panel that is snap-fittingly coupled to the window side curtain frame and covers the accordion filler part when the adjustable side curtain is in the extended position.
 2. The window air conditioner unit of claim 1, wherein the air conditioner housing has four rounded corners.
 3. The window air conditioner unit of claim 1, wherein each of the window side curtain frames includes an upper horizontal rail that slidingly travels within the upper internal channel formed along a top of the air conditioner housing; a lower horizontal rail that slidingly travels within the lower internal channel formed along a bottom of the air conditioner housing and a vertical end rail that extends between and is coupled to the upper and lower horizontal rails, with a first open space being formed between the upper and lower horizontal supports and vertical end support, the accordion filler part being disposed within the first open space.
 4. The window air conditioner unit of claim 3, wherein an inner end of each accordion filler part is attached to one of a first and second side adapter that is fixed to the air conditioner housing along a respective side wall thereof.
 5. The window air conditioner unit of claim 4, wherein an opposite outer end of each accordion filler part is attached to the vertical end rail of one respective window side curtain frame.
 6. The window air conditioner unit of claim 3, wherein each accordion filler part is slidingly captured within the window side curtain frame.
 7. The window air conditioner unit of claim 1, wherein the window side curtain frame includes first measurement indicia that identifies an extent by which the adjustable side curtain extends from the air conditioner housing and the outer panel includes second measurement indicia that matches the first measurement indicia and allows the outer panel to be cut to an optimal size.
 8. The window air conditioner unit of claim 7, wherein the first measurement indicia is formed along an upper horizontal rail of the window side curtain frame and the second measurement indicia is formed along a rear face of the outer panel.
 9. The window air conditioner unit of claim 8, wherein the first measurement indicia and second measurement indicate are calibrated relative to an inner edge of the upper horizontal rail and an inner edge of the outer panel, respectively, and are measured relative to an end edge of the main frame body.
 10. The window air conditioner unit of claim 8, wherein the first measurement indicia comprises consecutive numbers spaced apart at set first intervals and the second measurement indicia comprises consecutive numbers spaced apart at the set first intervals.
 11. The window air conditioner unit of claim 3, wherein the vertical end rail of each window side curtain frame include female locking features that snap-fittingly mate with male locking features formed as part of the outer panel.
 12. The window air conditioner unit of claim 11, wherein the female locking features comprise locking slots that face forward along the vertical end rail and the male locking features comprise a plurality of cantilever beams with catches formed at ends thereof.
 13. The window air conditioner unit of claim 1, wherein the main frame body defines a slot in which inner ends of the outer panels are received and captured while outer ends of the outer panels are snap-fittingly coupled to respective window side curtain frames.
 14. The window air conditioner unit of claim 1, wherein the main frame body includes a top rail, a bottom rail, a first side adapter and a second side adapter, one accordion filler part of one adjustable side curtain being coupled to the first side adapter and the other accordion filler part of the other adjustable side curtain being coupled to the second side adapter.
 15. The window air conditioner unit of claim 1, wherein the outer panel comprises a foam body with an outer decorative film on an outer surface of the foam body and a trim piece attached to an inner surface of the foam body, the trim piece including first snap-fitting members that interlockingly mate with second snap-fittingly members that are part of the window side curtain frame.
 16. A method of installing an air conditioner unit into a window frame, the method comprising the steps of: inserting the air conditioner unit into an opening defined in the window frame; extending left and right adjustable side curtains until the left and right adjustable side curtains contact jambs of the window frame; recording a left measurement of an extent at which the left adjustable side curtain extends from a left reference point of the air conditioner unit and recording a right measurement of an extend at which the right adjustable side curtain extends from a right reference point of the air conditioner unit; cutting to size each of a left outer panel by cutting along one of: 1) a first cut line identified by indicia that matches the recorded left measurement and 2) a second cut line that is immediately adjacent the first cut line and cutting to size a right outer panel buy cutting along one of: 1) a third cut line identified by indicia that matches the recorded left measurement and 2) a fourth cut line that is immediately adjacent the third cut line; and snap-fittingly installing the cut left outer panel onto a frame of the left adjustable side curtain and snap-fittingly installing the cut right outer panel onto a frame of the right adjustable side curtain.
 17. A window air conditioner frame for installation on a window air conditioner unit comprising: an adjustable outer frame for coupling to and for extending around the window air conditioner unit and configured for insertion into a window, the adjustable outer frame including: a main frame body for being fixedly attached to the window air conditioner unit; and a pair of adjustable window side curtains that are slidingly coupled to the main frame body for filling an open window space; each adjustable side curtain moving between: (1) a retracted position in which the adjustable side curtain is retracted within upper and lower internal channels that are formed within the main frame body and are open along opposite sides of the main frame body and (2) an extended position in which the adjustable side curtain extends outwardly from the side of the main frame body a distance greater than when the adjustable side curtain is in the retracted position; and wherein each adjustable side curtain includes a window side curtain frame, an accordion filler part that is disposed within and carried by the window side curtain and an outer panel that is snap-fittingly coupled to the window side curtain frame and covers the accordion filler part when the adjustable side curtain is in the extended position.
 18. The window air conditioner frame of claim 17, wherein each of the window side curtain frames includes an upper horizontal rail that slidingly travels within the upper internal channel; a lower horizontal rail that slidingly travels within the lower internal channel and a vertical end rail that extends between and is coupled to the upper and lower horizontal rails, with a first open space being formed between the upper and lower horizontal supports and vertical end support, the accordion filler part being disposed within the first open space, wherein an inner end of each accordion filler part is attached to one of a first side adapter and a second side adapter that are part of the main frame body are for fixed attachment to the air conditioner housing along respective side walls thereof; and wherein an opposite outer end of each accordion filler part is attached to the vertical end rail of one respective window side curtain frame.
 19. The window air conditioner frame of claim 17, wherein the outer panel comprises a foam body with an outer decorative film on an outer surface of the foam body and a trim piece attached to an inner surface of the foam body, the trim piece including first snap-fitting members that interlockingly mate with second snap-fittingly members that are part of the window side curtain frame.
 20. The window air conditioner frame of claim 17, wherein the window side curtain frame includes first measurement indicia that identifies an extent by which the adjustable side curtain extends from a reference point of the air conditioner housing and the outer panel includes second measurement indicia formed on a rear surface thereof that matches the first measurement indicia and allows the outer panel to be cut to an optimal size. 